How to Elope on the North Shore in Minnesota

If you’re wondering how to elope on the North Shore in Minnesota, look no further! I have created the ultimate guide on eloping on Minnesota’s North Shore! There are so many gorgeous spots along the North Shore with so many amazing things to do and places to see! Let’s dive in!

Where to Elope on The North Shore

Here are a few of my absolute favorite places to elope or exchange personal vows to each other with beautiful views as your background on the North Shore.

• Palisade Head
• Black Sand Beach
• Crystal Bay Point
• Silver Bay Beach
• Tettegouche State Park
• Gooseberry Falls
• Temperance River State Park
• Grand Marais
• Duluth

Best Time to Elope on The North Shore in Minnesota

I highly recommend eloping either in the Summer or Fall (June-October). Summer temperatures on the North Shore are extremely comfortable and range from Mid 60s to Mid 70s. The flowers bloom during the summer and are absolutely stunning! The water on Lake Superior is always cold though.

Fall on the North Shore is probably THE most beautiful thing you’ve ever seen! The colors of the leaves are insane! Temperatures range from Mid 40s to mid 50s.

Winters are absolutely beautiful but it’s freezing outside. If you love the snow and dream of a snowy elopement I recommend going during Spring which is at the end of March-April. There’s usually still snow but the temperatures aren’t as cold anymore!

Where to Stay Along the North Shore

There are tons of hotels, cozy cabins and amazing AirBnB’s on the North Shore. Here are some of the most intimate and romantic cabins and lodge resorts that are right on the North Shore!

Cove Point Lodge – Beaver Bay, MN – You can stay in the beautiful grand lodge here, or choose a cozy private cabin. There are plenty of activities for all seasons and it’s convenient to Split Rock Lighthouse, Gooseberry Falls, Tettegouche State Park and so much more!

Breezy Point – Two Harbors, MN – These private lakeside cabins range from studio to two-bedroom and are right along the edge of the lake. You cannot get better views than what you’ll find here.

Lamb’s Resort – Schroeder, Minnesota – This lovely little resort offers adorable cabins right on the lake or river, as well as RV or tent camping if you want to keep it rustic for your elopement.

Anderson’s North Shore Resort – Grand Marais, MN – These cabins right on the shore of Lake Superior are open year-round if you’re looking for that winter wonderland experience. They offer plenty of privacy, and even outdoor decks complete with a BBQ!

Patagonia Cabin – Grand Marais, MN – This Cozy, romantic cabin on VRBO has a lake view and is a close walk to Downtown Grand Marais.

Recommended Vendors Along The North Shore

We have amazing vendors up North along the North Shore. Here are some amazing wedding vendors in and near the North Shore that I recommend:

• Hair-  HERE & HERE
• Make Up- HERE & HERE
• Florals- HERE , HERE & HERE
• Wedding Dress Shop- HERE, HERE
• Photographer –HERE

What to Do on The North Shore

There so many fun activities to do along the North Shore as well as a few must stop places to get some tasty eats along the way!

Activities to do:

hiking, kayaking, ATV trails, biking, fishing, skiing, snowmobiling. If you’re in need of a place to buy or rent out door gear- click HERE!

Places to eat:

Betty’s Pies, New Scenic Cafe, Silver Creek Chophouse, The Tipsy Mosquito, Grand Superior Grill, Cove Point Lodge, Tracks N Racks, The Fisherman’s Daughter.

Making it Legal

Here’s everything you’ll need to know to get legally married on Minnesota’s North Shore:

Marriage License – To get married in Minnesota, you will need to apply for a marriage license. It does not matter what county you apply in, as long as you are getting married somewhere in the state of Minnesota. You can fill out an online application for St. Louis County Minnesota here.

Fees – The fee for a marriage license in Minnesota is $115, unless you take 12 hours of premarital education classes. If you take the classes, a marriage license is only $40. You will need to look up premarital counselors that are certified to provide the education and have proof that you took the classes.

There is no waiting period to get the license, typically you will just need to make an appointment at the licensing office. Your license is good for 6 months from the date it is issued.

Officiant – In Minnesota, you need to be married by someone who is authorized to perform marriage ceremonies, which includes judges and ordained ministers of any faith. I recommend Marry Me In The North.

 Witnesses – You’ll need to have 2 witnesses present to sign the marriage license. If you’re planning an intimate elopement, don’t worry! Your elopement photographer can help you find two people nearby (usually at the trailhead or parking lot) who can serve as your witnesses without having to attend the ceremony! 😀

Permits – Depending on where you’re eloping, you might need a special permit to have a wedding ceremony there. Some state parks and national parks, for example, require ceremony or photo permits. I can help you with this if need be!

More About Heidi Straus Photography

Hi I’m Heidi! i’m originally from South Africa, but live in Minneapolis Minnesota now! I am extremely passionate about capturing beautiful, candid memories for couples all over the world! I hope you found this guide on How to Elope on The North Shore in Minnesota super helpful! If you’re still looking for a photographer for your elopement- please reach out HERE! I am excited to connect with you!